NFL Sells RedZone, NFL Network to ESPN in Blockbuster Deal

The NFL and ESPN have finalized a landmark media deal that transfers key NFL properties, including NFL Network, RedZone, seven additional regular-season games, and the league’s fantasy football business, to ESPN in exchange for up to a 10% equity stake in the network. This complex agreement, reportedly worth billions, is expected to be officially announced soon and requires regulatory approval. The deal aligns with ESPN's launch of a new direct-to-consumer streaming service priced around $29.99 per month, which will allow fans to access all ESPN content, including NFL games, without a traditional cable subscription. NFL Network and RedZone will retain their branding but become accessible through ESPN’s revamped app, integrating more NFL content under one platform. The arrangement enhances ESPN's position as the primary NFL broadcaster and offers the NFL a significant ownership share in one of the biggest sports media companies. Overall, the deal represents a major shift in NFL media rights distribution and ESPN's strategy to expand its streaming offerings and football coverage for the 2026-2027 season and beyond.